Rising fuels costs and the economic downturn have caused many to become price-conscious shoppers. Bargain hunters are flocking to discount stores for items such as cups, napkins, and paper plates.

By 2011, nearly 35,100 stores are projected nationwide (up 1,665 from 2006) and sales are expected to reach $50 billion, according to TNS Retail Forward’s “Industry Outlook: Dollar Stores and Other Small-Format Value Retailers.” In the future, shoppers can expect to see expanding food selections and different payment options to improve the overall customer experience.

For more information click here.

Retailers such Wal-mart and T.J. Maxx saw an improvement in sales in April and May with the help of tax rebate checks. Wal-Mart saw same-store sales rise 3.9% while analysts only predicted a 1.6% rise. T.J Maxx same-store sales increased 2% while analysts predicted a 1.8% sales increase.

Other retailers did not do so well. For instance J.C. Penney same-store sales fell 4.4% while luxury retailer Saks Inc. saw same-store sales fall 8.7%.

For More Information Click Here.

While many retailers are suffering due to cash-squeezed customers, Costco is flourishing as customer flock to the discount warehouse in search of bargains.

Sales increased 13 percent to $16.26 billion from $14.34 billion in the year-ago period. Including membership fees, revenue rose to $16.61 billion from $14.66 billion.

Click here for more information.